U.S. tourist falls into Mount Vesuvius crater while taking a selfie

An American tourist fell into the crater of Mount Vesuvius in Italy on Saturday after trespassing the active volcano to take a selfie, officials reported. 

The 23-year-old man allegedly dropped his phone after taking a selfie. However, as he tried to retrieve the device, he fell several meters into the crater. Nearby park officials had to come to his rescue. 

The man sustained minor injuries from his fall. 

The American tourist, identified as Philip Carroll, allegedly climbed up the volcano in an unauthorized path to reach the top because the 2,700 official tickets to climb to the top were all booked for that day. 

Unlike the authorized visitors, Carroll came up to the opposite side of the crater where visitors are not allowed. He approached the area with two other Americans, two Brits, and one Austrian.

Soon after, the park’s volcanological guides spotted people in the upper part of the crater, which is forbidden for solo access. When they started moving towards the area, they saw the 23-year-old fall and were able to promptly rescue him. 

The guides had to perform first aid on Carroll’s injuries. He had hurt his legs, arms, and back. 

Police arrived at the scene and took Carroll and his companions into custody. The group was charged with encroachment on public land, Italian news outlets reported. Although legal action might not be taken against the man, he might be made to pay a fine. 

"[The guides] are always on the crater to safeguard the safety of tourists. So, recognizing the promptness and professionalism shown on this occasion as well seemed the right thing to do," said the president of the Volcano Vesuvius Permanent Presidium and Figav-Confesercenti, Paolo Capelli. 

"Having spoken directly with those who provided the rescue, I can safely say that last Saturday on Mount Vesuvius, they saved a human life. I officially thank the whole group of guides belonging to the Presidio Permanente Vulcano Vesuvio, always ready and operational in any condition," Cappelli added.

While it is uncommon to find visitors in the unauthorized path, it happens around ten times a year, Capelli said.